Key equity benchmarks were trading with small gains in mid-afternoon trade. At 14:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 77.18 points or 0.20% at 38,440.65. The Nifty 50 index was up 5.10 points or 0.04% at 11,537.50.

Trading kicked off on a negative note. Shares, however, gained vigor in morning trade amid broad based buying support. Indices pared gains in mid-morning trade as profit booking emerged at higher levels. Benchmarks hovered near flat line in afternoon trade. Gains were capped as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.33%. The BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.24%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was weak. On BSE, 1050 shares rose and 1518 shares fell. A total of 171 shares were unchanged.

State-run Power Grid Corporation of India was down 0.3%. State-run Coal India was down 2.57%.

Jet Airways (India) lost 4.78% after the company said that an additional six aircraft (include one aircraft of Jet Lite (India)) have been grounded due to non-payment of amounts outstanding to lessors under their respective lease agreements. The company is actively engaged with all its aircraft lessors and regularly provides with updates on the efforts undertaken by the company to improve its liquidity. Aircraft lessors have been supportive of the company's efforts in this regard. The company is also making all efforts to minimize disruption to its network and is proactively informing and re-accommodating its affected guests. The company also continues to provide required and periodic updates to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in this regard. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Newgen Software Technologies surged 10.18% after the company announced the issuance of Patent, entitled Integrated and Automatic Generation of Carbon Credits. Newgen's platforms enable organizations to save operational costs by replacing paper and file movement with digital workflows and document management. Newgen's invention is a carbon credit analyzer coupled with the process management unit, which helps organizations automatically estimate costs & savings associated with the processing of documents. These savings are then converted to equivalent carbon credits. The patent is valid till 10 June 2029. Newgen has filed for 44 patents till date, out of which 11 have been granted. And, there are 3 patents under examination in the US. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Overseas, most European and Asian shares were trading lower as investors awaited a policy decision by the US Federal Reserve.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Global market focus is largely attuned to global trade developments, amid media reports of US concerns that China is pushing back against American demands in trade talks.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Weak market breadth20-Mar-2019 (13:40)

A divergent trend was witnessed as the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was trading with small gains while the Nifty 50 index was trading with small losses in afternoon trade. At 13:30 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 12.37 points or 0.03% at 38,375.84. The Nifty 50 index was down 14.60 points or 0.13% at 11,517.80.

DLF rose 1.83%. The company announced its second joint venture with Hines. DLF Home Developers (DHDL), a wholly owned subsidiary of DLF, and Green Horizon Trustee, an affiliate of Hines, have entered into a joint venture to develop a high-end commercial project in Gurugram. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Barometers reverse intraday gains20-Mar-2019 (12:21)

Key benchmarks indices wiped off intraday gains in early afternoon trade. At 12:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 5.54 points or 0.01% at 38,369.01. The Nifty 50 index was down 9.85 points or 0.09% at 11,522.55. Mixed cues from other Asian market dented investors sentiments.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Market breadth turns negative20-Mar-2019 (11:22)

Key barometers pared gains in mid-morning trade. At 11:25 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 63.22 points or 0.16% at 38,426.69. The Nifty 50 index was up 2 points or 0.02% at 11,534.40.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Market bounces from early lows; breadth positive20-Mar-2019 (10:39)

Shares bounced back from early lows and hit fresh intraday high in morning trade. At 10:32 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 103.57 points or 0.27% at 38,467.04. The Nifty 50 index was up 19.35 points or 0.17% at 11,551.75.

Trading kicked off on a negative note. Shares, however, gained vigor in morning trade amid broad based buying support.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.11%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.14%. Both these indices underperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1016 shares rose and 980 shares fell. A total of 125 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Shares trade lower amid mixed Asian cues20-Mar-2019 (09:19)

Key benchmark indices were trading lower in early trade amid mixed cues from Asian markets. At 9:22 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 12.81 points or 0.03% at 38,350.66. The Nifty 50 index was down 8.55 points or 0.07% at 11,523.85.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.15%. The BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.04%. Both these indices underperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was almost even. On BSE, 575 shares rose and 511 shares fell. A total of 53 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

Back home, DLF was up 3.04%. The company announced its second joint venture with Hines. DLF Home Developers (DHDL), a wholly owned subsidiary of DLF, and Green Horizon Trustee, an affiliate of Hines, have entered into a joint venture to develop a high-end commercial project in Gurugram. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Muthoot Capital Services was up 2.83%. The company completed a securitization transaction of Rs 236.36 crore on 15 March 2019. With this transaction, the company has so far raised total funds of Rs 749.20 crore through securitization / direct assignment transactions during the FY 2018 - 19. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Cox & Kings was up 0.80%. The company owned Meininger Hotels opened its first hotel in Hungary named MEININGER Budapest Great Market Hall. The newly built property not far from the Danube promenade is located next to the famous Great Market Hall and has 184 rooms and 751 beds. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

V-Mart Retail was down 0.67%. The company said that it opened a new store in the state of Uttar Pradesh. This takes the total number of stores to 211 stores in 168 cities across 17 states and total tally of Uttar Pradesh is 85 stores. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Bodal Chemicals was up 1.72%. The company informed that commencement and expansion of manufacturing facilities has been successfully completed and production started at UNIT VII of the company, situated at Village Dudhwada, Taluka Padra, District Vadodara, Gujarat. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Rushil Decor was up 0.54%. The company said that there was a fire accident at its factory in Karnataka on Monday, 18 March 2019 at around 3:25 PM. The fire broke out in the store room located at road side of the factory and spread to some extent into the factory. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 19 March 2019.

Barometers hit fresh intraday high19-Mar-2019 (14:23)

The market firmed up and hit fresh intraday high in mid-afternoon trade. At 14:25 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 200.78 points or 0.53% at 38,295.85. The Nifty 50 index was up 44.40 points or 0.39% at 11,506.60. Banks stocks were in demand.

Stocks opened with small gains and continued hovering near flat line in morning trade. Benchmarks turned range bound in mid-morning trade. Fresh buying support boosted shares in mid-afternoon trade. Positive opening in European stock market improved investors sentiment.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.54%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.51%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1354 shares rose and 1224 shares fell. A total of 178 shares were unchanged.

Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

Indices trading with small gains 19-Mar-2019 (13:19)

Key indices held onto small gains in afternoon trade. At 13:18 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 44.69 points or 0.12% at 38,139.76. The Nifty 50 index was up 9.55 points or 0.08% at 11,471.75.

Stocks opened with small gains and continued hovering near flat line in morning trade. Benchmarks turned range bound in mid-morning trade. Negative cues from other Asian shares capped gains.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.55%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.52%. Both these indices outperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1302 shares rose and 1167 shares fell. A total of 166 shares were unchanged.

HCL Technologies was up 1.22%. The company has entered into a shared services arrangement with Xerox Corporation pursuant to which Xerox will outsource (subject to compliance with European works council consultation and employment regulatory requirements) certain global administrative and support functions, including, among others, selected information technology and finance functions (excluding accounting). The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Market hovers in green; cement shares advance19-Mar-2019 (12:20)

Key barometers continued trading with small gains in early afternoon trade. At 12:23 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 64.83 points or 0.17% at 38,159.90. The Nifty 50 index was up 15.20 points or 0.13% at 11,477.40.

Indices opened with small gains and continued hovering near flat line in morning trade. Benchmarks turned range bound in mid-morning trade. Negative cues from other Asian shares capped gains.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.48%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.49%. Both these indices outperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1269 shares rose and 1109 shares fell. A total of 152 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Stocks turn range bound19-Mar-2019 (11:36)

The market was trading in a narrow range in mid-morning trade. At 11:37 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 46.35 points or 0.12% at 38,141.42. The Nifty 50 index was up 13.95 points or 0.12% at 11,476.15.

Indices opened with small gains and continued hovering near flat line in morning trade. Benchmarks turned range bound in mid-morning trade. Negative cues from other Asian shares capped gains.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.43%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.45%. Both these indices outperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1222 shares rose and 1024 shares fell. A total of 145 shares were unchanged.

MindTree was down 1.77%. The promoters of Mindtree after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019, said they would unconditionally oppose the reported hostile takeover bid by Larsen and Toubro (L&T).

L&T was down 2.03%. L&T announced after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019, that it entered into a definitive share purchase agreement (SPA) with V G Siddhartha and his related entities namely, Coffee Day Trading & Coffee Day Enterprises, to acquire 20.32% stake in Mindtree, a global technology services and digital transformation company. L&T will purchase this stake at a price of Rs 980 per share, aggregating to approximately Rs 3269 crore.

Immediately following the filing of the public announcement, L&T placed an order with its broker for on-market purchase of up to 15% of share capital of Mindtree at a price not exceeding Rs 980 per share. Pursuant to execution of the SPA, the aforementioned market order for share purchase and with the intent to acquire majority stake in Mindtree, L&T announced an open offer to the public shareholders of Mindtree to purchase up to an additional 31% of the outstanding shares of Mindtree at a price of Rs 980 per share in cash.

HCL Technologies was up 0.69%. The company has entered into a shared services arrangement with Xerox Corporation pursuant to which Xerox will outsource (subject to compliance with European works council consultation and employment regulatory requirements) certain global administrative and support functions, including, among others, selected information technology and finance functions (excluding accounting). The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Majesco was down 0.08%. The company announced the acquisition of the India based insurance software business from its parent company, Majesco. The business will be acquired by Majesco's 100% subsidiary in India, Majesco Software And Solutions India (MSSIPL), and is subject to statutory approvals including approval of the shareholders of Majesco and shall be effective from 1 April 2019. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Key benchmarks were almost flat in morning trade. At 10:33 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 30.86 points or 0.08% at 38,125.93. The Nifty 50 index was up 3.45 points or 0.03% at 11,465.65. Auto shares decline.

Indices opened with small gains and continued hovering near flat line in morning trade. Negative cues from other Asian shares capped gains.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.36%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.31%. Both these indices outperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1068 shares rose and 883 shares fell. A total of 114 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Shares trade with small gains19-Mar-2019 (09:16)

Key benchmark indices were trading with small gains in early trade. At 9:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 35.78 points or 0.09% at 38,130.85. The Nifty 50 index was up 15.60 points or 0.14% at 11,477.80.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.22%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.24%. Both these indices outperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 597 shares rose and 380 shares fell. A total of 56 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

Back home, HCL Technologies was up 0.66%. The company has entered into a shared services arrangement with Xerox Corporation pursuant to which Xerox will outsource (subject to compliance with European works council consultation and employment regulatory requirements) certain global administrative and support functions, including, among others, selected information technology and finance functions (excluding accounting). The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Aarti Industries was up 0.07%. The company said that the meeting of the Board of Directors of the company is scheduled on 22 March 2019 to consider and approve the issue price for equity shares to be allotted to the qualified institutional buyers in the proposed issue, including a discount, if any, as permitted under the SEBI ICDR Regulations. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Majesco was up 1.53%. The company announced the acquisition of the India based insurance software business from its parent company, Majesco. The business will be acquired by Majesco's 100% subsidiary in India, Majesco Software And Solutions India (MSSIPL), and is subject to statutory approvals including approval of the shareholders of Majesco and shall be effective from 1 April 2019. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Voltas was up 0.23%. The company has further strengthened its leadership position in the Cooling Products space, by launching its new range of Voltas Adjustable Inverter ACs. Voltas' Adjustable Inverter AC comes with the unique value proposition of 'Flexible Air Conditioning' that allows the user to switch from 1.5 Ton to 1 Ton capacity, and vice versa, depending on the ambient heat or number of people in the room; leading to savings and optimization of running cost. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

ISGEC Heavy Engineering was up 1.63%. The company has fixed 29 March 2019 as the record date for the purpose of sub-division of 1 equity share of Rs 10 each into 10 equity shares of Re 1 each. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 18 March 2019.

Sensex trades below 38,000 mark; breadth weak18-Mar-2019 (14:26)

Key barometers were trading with small losses in mid-afternoon trade. At 14:25 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 45.30 points or 0.12% at 37,979.02. The Nifty 50 index was down 4.65 points or 0.04% at 11,422.20. The Sensex was trading below 38,000 mark.

Indices opened firmly higher, but pared gains as the session progressed. Benchmarks briefly slipped into negative terrain in early afternoon trade. After hovering near flat line in afternoon trade, the indices slipped into negative terrain once again.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.30%. The BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.29%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was weak. On BSE, 1038 shares rose and 1574 shares fell. A total of 166 shares were unchanged.

Karnataka Bank was up 0.63%. The bank has entered into an agreement with Karvy DigiKormect for total Management of Contact Centre operations. As a part of Transformation journey, the Bank has engaged the services of Karvy DigiKonnect for managing its Contact Centre operations, which will be an effective interface between the Bank and millions of its customers. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

State-run Power Grid Corporation of India was up 1.92%. State-run Coal India was down 0.14%.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

Overseas, European stocks were trading higher on hopes that the US Federal Reserve could sound decidedly dovish at its policy meeting later this week. US Federal Reserve will decide on interest rates in its two-day meeting on 19-20 March 2019. The meeting will be associated with a summary of economic projections. The Fed held the target range for the federal funds rate at 2.25-2.5% on 30 January 2019.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Market regains positive zone18-Mar-2019 (13:27)

Stocks regained positive zone in afternoon trade. At 13:23 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 54.02 points or 0.14% at 38,078.34. The Nifty 50 index was up 23.95 points or 0.21% at 11,450.80.

Indices opened firmly higher, but pared gains as the session progressed. Benchmarks briefly slipped into negative terrain in early afternoon trade.

Broader market reversed early gains. Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.07%. The BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.09%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was negative. On BSE, 1032 shares rose and 1487 shares fell. A total of 173 shares were unchanged.

Lupin was down 4.32%. The company said that its subsidiary Novel Laboratories Inc. has received a letter from the U.S. FDA classifying the inspection conducted at its Somerset (New Jersey) facility in December 2018 as Official Action Indicated (OAI). The U.S. FDA has stated that this facility may be subject to regulatory or administrative action and that it may withhold approval of any pending applications or supplements in which this facility is listed. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Sensex, Nifty briefly slip into the red18-Mar-2019 (12:19)

Key benchmarks bounced back after briefly slipping into negative terrain in early afternoon trade. At 12:23 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 12.57 points or 0.03% at 38,036.89. The Nifty 50 index was up 11.90 points or 0.10% at 11,438.75.

MindTree was up 1.15%. The company said that its board will meet on 20 March 2019 to consider the proposal to buyback the fully paid-up equity shares of the company. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 15 March 2019.

A firm rupee adversely affects operating profit margin of IT firms as the sector derives a lion's share of revenue from exports.

In the foreign exchange market, the rupee edged higher against the dollar. The partially convertible rupee was hovering at 68.66, compared with its close of 69.10 during the previous trading session.

Lupin was down 4.16%. The company said that its subsidiary Novel Laboratories Inc. has received a letter from the U.S. FDA classifying the inspection conducted at its Somerset (New Jersey) facility in December 2018 as Official Action Indicated (OAI). The U.S. FDA has stated that this facility may be subject to regulatory or administrative action and that it may withhold approval of any pending applications or supplements in which this facility is listed. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

Cadila Healthcare was down 1.08%. Zydus Cadila has received the final approval from the USFDA to market Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide tablets USP (US RLD — Diovan HCT Tablets) in the strengths of 80 mg/12.5 mg, 160 mtg/12.5 mg, 160 mg/25 mg, 320 mtg/12.5 mg, and 320 mg/25 mg. The drug is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. It will be manufactured at the group's formulations manufacturing facility at Moraiya, Ahmedabad. The group now has 256 approvals and has so far filed over 350 ANDAs since the commencement of the filing process in FY 2003-2004. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Market breadth turns negative18-Mar-2019 (11:27)

The market further pared gains in mid-morning trade. At 11:30 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 95.46 points or 0.25% at 38,119.78. The Nifty 50 index was up 29.90 points or 0.26% at 11,456.75. Auto shares declined.

Indices opened firmly higher, but pared gains as the session progressed. Broader market reversed early gains. Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.03%. The BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.12%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, turned negative from positive. On BSE, 992 shares rose and 1286 shares fell. A total of 141 shares were unchanged.

Indusind Bank was up 1.02%. The bank announced during trading hours today, 18 February 2019, that it inaugurated a branch in the Sadar Bazar area of Delhi, making it the 54th branch to become operational in the city. In a separate announcement, the bank said that it inaugurated a branch in Boisar, an upcoming industrial area situated in the Palghar district of Maharashtra. This is the Bank's first branch in this region.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Benchmarks pare gains; breadth positive18-Mar-2019 (10:26)

Key equity indices pared gains in morning trade as profit selling emerged at higher levels. At 10:27 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 221.35 points or 0.58% at 38,245.67. The Nifty 50 index was up 62.85 points or 0.55% at 11,489.70.

Indices opened with strong gains, but trimmed gains as the session progressed. Investors sentiment continued to be strong amid positive cues from other Asian shares.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.29%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.21%. Both these indices underperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 1137 shares rose and 887 shares fell. A total of 134 shares were unchanged.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Market trades higher on positive global cues18-Mar-2019 (09:17)

Key benchmark indices were trading higher in early trade on positive Asian cues. At 9:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 274.87 points or 0.72% at 38,299.19. The Nifty 50 index was up 71.75 points or 0.63% at 11,498.60.

Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.61%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.48%. Both these indices underperformed the Sensex.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was strong. On BSE, 862 shares rose and 325 shares fell. A total of 58 shares were unchanged.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

Back home, Lupin was down 5.39%. The company said that its subsidiary Novel Laboratories Inc. has received a letter from the U.S. FDA classifying the inspection conducted at its Somerset (New Jersey) facility in December 2018 as Official Action Indicated (OAI). The U.S. FDA has stated that this facility may be subject to regulatory or administrative action and that it may withhold approval of any pending applications or supplements in which this facility is listed. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

Mindtree was up 1.59%. The company said that its board will meet on 20 March 2019 to consider the proposal to buyback the fully paid-up equity shares of the company. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 15 March 2019.

Cadila Healthcare was down 0.32%. The company has received the final approval from the USFDA to market Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP (US RLD - Diovan HCT Tablets) in the strengths of 80 mg/12.5 mg, 160 mtg/12.5 mg, 160 mg/25 mg, 320 mtg/12.5 mg, and 320 mg/25 mg. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

Jubilant FoodWorks was up 1.18%. The company said that Domino's Pizza was officially launched in Bangladesh with the opening of its first restaurant in Rangs Fortune Square, Dhanmondi, Dhaka. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 15 March 2019.

Karnataka Bank was up 1.29%. The bank has entered into an agreement with Karvy DigiKormect for total Management of Contact Centre operations. As a part of Transformation journey, the Bank has engaged the services of Karvy DigiKonnect for managing its Contact Centre operations, which will be an effective interface between the Bank and millions of its customers. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 March 2019.

On the economic front, India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

Indices extend gain15-Mar-2019 (14:32)

Strong buying demand in index pivotals pushed the key benchmark indices to fresh intraday high in mid-afternoon trade. At 14:25 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 449.85 points or 1.19% at 38,204.74. The Nifty 50 index was up 127.90 points or 1.13% at 11,471.15. Bank stocks gained. Positive global stocks boosted sentiment.

The Sensex was currently trading above the psychological 38,000 level after moving above and below that level in intraday trade. Domestic stocks nudged higher in early trade on positive Asian stocks. Key benchmark indices extended early gains and hit intraday high in morning trade. Stocks hovered in positive zone in mid-morning trade. Indices extended gains in afternoon trade.

The S&P BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.63%. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.13%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, turned negative from positive. On the BSE, 1276 shares rose and 1284 shares fell. A total of 173 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, European equities were trading higher as all eyes remain on the trade talks. U.K. shares climbed after Prime Minister Theresa May won some time for a final push on her rejected Brexit deal. The U.K. Parliament voted to request an extension of the March 29 Brexit deadline to June 30 if lawmakers can agree to a withdrawal deal by March 20. Thursday's vote comes after Prime Minister Theresa May failed to secure support for her revised Brexit plan and lawmakers on Wednesday ruled out a no-deal exit.

Asian markets were trading higher Friday as China took a step to appease U.S. trade negotiators. Chinese legislators on Friday approved a new law against the forced transfer of technology by foreign companies, which has been a major complaint by the U.S. and other countries. The move was intended to smooth the path to a trade deal, but it's unclear if it will be enough.

A meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be delayed until at least April, as per reports, indicating that a bilateral trade deal will not be finalized this month.

Benchmarks hit fresh intraday high15-Mar-2019 (13:21)

Key equity indices extended gains and hit fresh intraday high in afternoon trade. At 13:18 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 328.62 points or 0.87% at 38,083.51. The Nifty 50 index was up 101.05 points or 0.89% at 11,444.30. The Sensex was trading above 38,000 mark.

The Sensex was currently trading above the psychological 38,000 level after moving above and below that level in intraday trade. Domestic stocks nudged higher in early trade on positive Asian stocks. Key benchmark indices extended early gains and hit intraday high in morning trade. Stocks hovered in positive zone in mid-morning trade. Indices extended gains in afternoon trade.

The S&P BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.50%. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.25%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On the BSE, 1290 shares rose and 1151 shares fell. A total of 180 shares were unchanged.

Reliance Industries (RIL) rose 0.46%. Brookfield has filed the preliminary placement memorandum, in terms of which India Infrastructure Trust, an InvIT set up by Brookfield as sponsor and 90% investor, will invest Rs 13,000 crore to acquire the East West Pipeline (Pipeline). As a part of the transaction, the InvIT will acquire 100% equity interest in Pipeline Infrastructure Private Limited (PIPL) which currently owns and operates the Pipeline.

RIL's current investment in preference shares valued at Rs 4,000 crore will continue and will be converted into equity at the end of 20 years. Further at the end of 20 years, RIL has the right to acquire equity shares of PIPL held by the InvIT at an equity value of Rs 50 crore. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 14 March 2019.

Overseas, Asian markets were trading higher Friday as China took a step to appease U.S. trade negotiators. Chinese legislators on Friday approved a new law against the forced transfer of technology by foreign companies, which has been a major complaint by the U.S. and other countries. The move was intended to smooth the path to a trade deal, but it's unclear if it will be enough.

A meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be delayed until at least April, as per reports, indicating that a bilateral trade deal will not be finalized this month.

Meanwhile, the U.K. Parliament voted to request an extension of the March 29 Brexit deadline to June 30 if lawmakers can agree to a withdrawal deal by March 20. Thursday's vote comes after Prime Minister Theresa May failed to secure support for her revised Brexit plan and lawmakers on Wednesday ruled out a no-deal exit.

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